Schilaty Projects
Advancing Movement, Relieving Pain, Restoring Lives
The Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Research (CNMSR) at the University of South Florida focuses on understanding and treating chronic pain, movement disorders, and musculoskeletal dysfunction through advanced biomechanics, neuroscience, and rehabilitation science. Its researchers develop innovative diagnostic tools and personalized therapies using motion analysis, wearable technology, and translational clinical trials to improve long-term outcomes for patients.
Movement Disorders and Biomechanics
A core research area at CNMSR involves the study of movement disorders and the biomechanics of human motion. Researchers use advanced motion capture systems, such as Vicon’s Nexus 2, to analyze gait and joint mechanics with high precision. Dr. Teran Wodzinski, for example, focuses on how gait biomechanics influence the progression of knee osteoarthritis, particularly in women with knee hyperextension.
Her studies incorporate 3D motion analysis and remote monitoring of knee kinematics to evaluate the effectiveness of gait retraining interventions. This research not only informs personalized rehabilitation strategies but also contributes to the development of wearable technologies and feedback systems that support long-term mobility and joint health.
Technology-Driven Rehabilitation
The CNMSR integrates cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize rehabilitation practices. Using wearable sensors, real-time motion tracking, and machine learning algorithms, researchers can monitor patient progress, detect early signs of dysfunction, and tailor interventions to individual needs. These technologies enable remote rehabilitation, allowing patients to receive feedback and support outside of clinical settings. The Center also collaborates with the USF Center for Assistive, Rehabilitation and Robotics Technologies (CARRT), which develops virtual reality systems, robotic arms, and adaptive devices to assist individuals with disabilities in performing daily activities independently4. Together, these initiatives represent a shift toward data-driven, personalized rehabilitation that empowers patients and enhances functional recovery.
Translational and Clinical Research
CNMSR places a strong emphasis on translational research, aiming to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications. The Center fosters multidisciplinary collaboration among experts in neurosurgery, physical therapy, chiropractic medicine, and biomedical engineering to ensure that research findings are directly applicable to patient care. Clinical trials and pilot studies are conducted to evaluate new diagnostic tools, therapeutic interventions, and rehabilitation technologies. The Center also supports the development of patentable innovations such as spine braces and isoinertial measurement devices for lower extremities, which are designed to enhance recovery and prevent injury. Through these efforts, CNMSR ensures that its scientific advancements translate into meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery.
Get Involved
Thank you to all our partners and supporters! Your involvement helps The CNMSR at USF Health advance research, train the next generation of clinicians and scientists, and foster collaboration in neuromusculoskeletal health.
Help advance neuromusculoskeletal research and training at CNSMR, USF Health. Opportunities to collaborate, take part in, or support our mission are always welcome.